San Lorenzo Market

When you hear
people talk about shopping in the San Lorenzo Market, there are actually two
markets they may be referring to. One is the popular-with-tourists outdoor
market full of leather goods as well as Tuscan and Florentine souvenirs. The
other is right next to the street market, but it's indoors with food
vendors selling everything from meat and fish to vegetables and bread. Both are
worth visiting.

The indoor
San Lorenzo Market - more commonly known as the Mercato Centrale di San Lorenzo
- has two floors of food stalls, and it's an excellent place to stroll through
if you're wondering what ingredients are fresh and seasonal (and therefore what
you should look for on menus) or picking up supplies for a picnic or the
kitchen in your rented apartment.

Some of the deliciousness can be brought home
as souvenirs, too, although be sure you know your country's laws regarding
bringing meats and cheeses back home before you spend the money on something
that may get confiscated. Many cooking classes in Florence include a walk
through the Mercato Centrale at the beginning so visitors can learn about Italian
food markets and pick up the ingredients they'll be working with.

The outdoor
San Lorenzo Market is the one that's most visible, since it's outside and open
in any weather. The streets around the Basilica di San Lorenzo crowd with
stalls every day. Most of the vendors are selling leather goods - everything
from beautiful leather jackets to belts and wallets and purses - while others
sell other sorts of souvenirs. This part of Tuscany is known for its leather,
so you can sometimes find really great deals in markets like these.

You should
be aware, however, that the stalls are operated by people who own actual shops
nearby, so if you're looking at a jacket or anything else that has different
sizes, you'll eventually be led from the stall to the shop. That's where the
hard bargaining (including the attempts at the upsell) begins. Bring your
haggling skills, be prepared to walk away if the price isn't right, and be very
careful with your valuables. The outdoor market - like any busy outdoor market
- can be a boon for pickpockets.